The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it has successfully transported 32,549 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the years hajj exercise.
Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director and Publication, NAHCON, who stated this in a statement on Wednesday said the number represents 79.1% of the total number of intending pilgrims from Nigeria.
Usara, said the pilgrims were transported through 79 flights operated since the commencement of the airlift operations on May 9th, 2025.
“Many states have concluded their airlift operations, including Adamawa and Plateau; those with one flight who are yet to complete their operations include Bauchi and Gombe States, with 30 pilgrims each left to be airlifted.
“Jigawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are also expected to complete their pilgrim airlift, and Kwara State, with 137 pilgrims remaining, will conclude by joining the Kano Max Air flight,” Usara said.
Meanwhile, Benue pilgrims will join intending pilgrims from the South-South region to undertake a combined and only flight from the region on May 23rd, marking the last phase of the airlift for the area.
She said : “Importantly, no flight cancellations have been recorded since the airlift began.
“However, deliberate minor delays were arranged to allow for the proper clean-up and decongestion of hotels in Madinah, especially with the surge in arrivals.
“Such cleanup procedures are standard operational routines following the vacating of rooms during the Hajj season.
“This goes unnoticed during initial airlift periods but causes misinterpretations at peak periods when a higher number of pilgrims are on the ground, requiring immediate turnover.”
The Commission commended the intending pilgrims and entire communities for their goodwill, patience, and prayers, and reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to ensure a smooth Hajj for every pilgrim.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
